Fort Jackson marks Women's Equality Day

1 / 1Show Caption +Hide Caption –Lt. Gen. Laura J. Richardson, the deputy commanding general for U.S. Army Forces Command, speaks at Fort Jackson's Women's Equality Day luncheon Aug. 22 at the post's NCO Club. 'In celebrating Women's Equality Day, the Army recognizes not only the significance, but also the value of diversity and a warm and inclusive environment,' she told the audience. (Photo Credit: Mr. Thomas Byrd (IMCOM))VIEW ORIGINAL

Women's Equality Day marks the historic milestone of granting women the right to vote in the United States.

The fight for women's suffrage, the right for women to vote, began in the mid-19th century in the U.S. However, it wasn't until the ratification of the 19th Amendment on Aug. 26, 1920 when women gained the right to vote in national elections in every state.

Since 1973, August 26 has been designated to commemorate the adoption of the 19th Amendment.
Fort Jackson celebrated Women's Equality Day with a luncheon and special guest speaker Aug. 22.

Lt. Gen. Laura J. Richardson, the deputy commanding general for U.S. Army Forces Command, shared her thoughts on the importance of Women's Equality Day and how it has impacted her specifically.

"By the time I was in high school in 1979, I didn't realize there had not always been women's sports in high school," said Richardson.

Richardson explained how Title IX, which ensured women could not be discriminated against under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance ensured her ability to participate in sports and set her up for success in the Army.

"In celebrating Women's Equality Day, the Army recognizes not only the significance, but also the value of diversity and a warm and inclusive environment," said Richardson.